The Thrissala Bhagavathy Temple, situated in Calicut, Kerala, is a revered sacred site with a rich historical and cultural heritage. The temple's origins date back to Tippu Sultan's invasion of Malabar, when the Padinjare Kovilakam family fled to Travancore and found refuge under Maharaja Karthika Thirunal Rama Varma, also known as Dharma Raja. For 50 years, they resided in Kunnathur Kovilakam, Kollam District, until the Zamorin rehabilitated them in Calicut, near the Valayanadu Devi temple, on land donated by the Mangalassery Nair family. Local lore suggests that this site once housed an ancient Bala Durga temple, razed during the Mysoorian invasion. During the construction of the kovilakam,
more a labourer's hatchet struck a stone, yielding blood, prompting a deva prasna that revealed the sila as the idol of Bala Durga. Consequently, a temple was erected, and worship commenced. The deity, an embodiment of Kanyakumari Devi, is revered for blessing children and maidens seeking excellence in education, music, and arts. The temple's sankalpa is deeply rooted in the goddess's benevolent nature, making it a sacred destination for devotees. Under the trusteeship of Padinjare Kovilakam Valiya Thamburatti, the temple spans 2.5 acres, featuring an impressive array of structures, including the east-facing square sreekovil, namaskaramandapam, chuttambalam, natapandal, gopuras, Bhagavathy kettu, office building, small auditorium, and tank. The 37cm Krishna Sila idol of Bala Durga, with four arms displaying conch, disc, Abhaya, and varada mudras, stands as the temple's centrepiece, with no other idols present. The temple's architecture and design reflect traditional Kerala style, blending seamlessly with its natural surroundings. The sacred site remains steeped in tradition and ritual, attracting devotees seeking the goddess's blessings and solace. Daily pujas and special ceremonies are performed with great fervour, maintaining the temple's spiritual essence. As a testament to its historical significance and cultural importance, Thrissala Bhagavathy Temple continues to inspire devotion and reverence, solidifying its place as a revered pilgrimage site in Kerala's rich spiritual landscape. With its unique blend of history, mythology, and spirituality, this temple remains integral to the region's heritage, inviting devotees and history enthusiasts to experience its divine essence.